The letter was an open invitation for donations to Ripon Cathedral

Edith Hunt, from Leeds, received an appeal from the Bishop of Ripon and Leeds, the Rt Rev John Packer.

Her family believe she was targeted because of her age and ill health.

But church spokesman John Carter said the general mailshot was intended for people with a connection to Ripon Cathedral and has apologised.

Positive responses

He labelled a national newspaper's description on Monday of the appeal as a "begging" letter as sensationalist and irresponsible.

"It was intended for people who had some connection, either present or past, inviting them to think about leaving something to the cathedral," Mr Carter said.

"Many people have responded positively to this request but it was sent in error [to Edith Hunt] and we wholeheartedly apologise for any distress to her family."

He said the letter was from the Ripon Cathedral Development Campaign and endorsed by the Bishop.

"It is only an invitation to people to think about the cathedral. It is an ancient building and it is part of our heritage," Mr Carter added.